Page 38 of Check & Chase
Tyler, who’s been uncharacteristically quiet, finally speaks. “Five weeks? That’s what you told him?”
I force myself to meet his gaze. “That’s the standard recovery timeline for a Grade 3 MCL tear.”
“Mitchell’s never been one for standard anything,” Tyler observes with a smirk. “I bet he’s already planning his comeback for next week.”
“His recovery timeline is non-negotiable,” I emphasize. “Returning too soon would risk permanent damage.”
Peterson nods approvingly before excusing himself, leaving me alone with Tyler. The friendly mask slips from his face immediately.
“You look good, Em,” he says, eyes raking over me in a way that makes my skin crawl. “The Bears’ medical team suits you.”
“What do you want, Tyler?” I keep my voice even, though my heart rate has picked up.
“Can’t a guy catch up with an old friend?” His smile doesn’t reach his eyes. “We have history, after all.”
“History is the operative word,” I reply. “Ancienthistory.”
I try to leave, but he stands up to block my path. “Did you watch Friday’s game? I wonder who you were cheering for, your brother, or your new favorite patient?”
“My personal life is none of your business.”
“Mitchell’s got a reputation, you know.” He leans closer. “Ask around about what happened with his last physical therapist. Might want to be careful there.”
“Thanks for the concern, but I’m capable of maintaining professional boundaries.”
His laugh is sharp. “Like you did at the championship party? Quite cozy in that study, weren’t you?”
Before I can respond, a familiar voice cuts through the tension.
“Is there a problem here?”
Chase stands a few feet away, leaning on his crutches, his expression casual. But I recognize the hardness in his eyes, the slight clench of his jaw.
Tyler straightens. “No problem. Just catching up with an old friend.”
“Didn’t look like a friendly conversation from where I’m standing,” Chase counters. “Emma, don’t you have a patient waiting?”
I seize the lifeline gratefully. “Yes, I do. Excuse me, Tyler.”
This time when I try to pass, he doesn’t block me. But he does call after me. “Think about what I said, Em. Some people don’t change.”
I keep walking, not giving him the satisfaction of a response. Chase falls into step beside me.
“You okay?” he asks once we’re out of earshot.
“Fine,” I say automatically, then sigh. “Thank you for the interruption.”
“Looked like you needed an escape route.” He studies my face as I push open the door to my treatment room. “What did he want?”
“To make me uncomfortable. He succeeded.” I gesture for Chase to enter. “You’re early for your session.”
“Had a meeting with Coach about my recovery.” He settles onto the table. “Thought I’d come straight here after.”
“And it had nothing to do with rescuing me from my ex?”
Chase grins. “Pure coincidence. But I won’t pretend I didn’t enjoy the look on West’s face when I interrupted whatever bullshit he was spewing.”
I can’t help the small smile that tugs at my lips. “He was being his usual charming self.”
